MELROSE PARK, IL -- New from Stern Pinball is the Metallica series, a tribute to the famous and durable "thrash metal" band. It's offered in pro, premium and limited-edition "Master of Puppets" versions, the last named for the title song of one of the group's most influential albums.

The new pinball machine is the latest in Stern's line of rock-and-roll-themed games. "Metallica's notoriously fast tempos and aggressive musicianship sets the tone for an exciting player experience," the manufacturer reported. Players will be able to "bang their heads and their flippers" to 12 Metallica classics including "One," "Fade to Black" and "Master of Puppets." Action-enhancing play features include an electric chair, a ball-eating snake and a grave marker, augmented by what the company described as unparalleled magnetic action.

"We are proud to release our newest music-themed game, designed to capture the raw, rebellious nature of Metallica," said chairman and chief executive Gary Stern.

The pro version of the game is priced at $4,995; the premium version (road case) costs $6,995; and the "Master of Puppets" limited edition is $7,595. All three models feature custom-molded playfield "toys" created by Stern, along with Metallica, as well as stainless-steel shooter, and left and right ball ramps with illuminated Metallica logos. Targets include electric chair and "fuel start" standups and grave marker inline drop objects. The audio system delivers not only the dozen Metallica hit songs, but band member custom speech tracks.

The MoP limited edition comes with a numbered plaque and certificate of authenticity, as well as a designer-signed playfield (John Borg's signature, protected by a hard-coat finish). It also incorporates an eye-catching mirrored "Master of Puppets" backglass. All models are available through Stern authorized distributors and dealers.

HEAVY METAL: Stern Pinball has unveiled Metallica, its latest music-themed flipper game line. From left are the pro, premium and limited-edition "Master of Puppets" versions.